Kimberly Grabham
25 July 2025, 8:00 PM
Five years ago, the team at Murrin Bridge Preschool had modest ambitions.
They needed repairs to their existing building – nothing fancy, just fixing up floors and addressing the wear and tear that comes with age.
Fast-forward to today, and the transformation is nothing short of remarkable.
The preschool now boasts a stunning, modern complex that serves more than 50 children from the local area, including those from surrounding farms.
What began as a repair job has evolved into a complete reimagining of what early childhood education can look like in a rural community.
When the new facilities officially opened in October 2023, the buildings had that fresh, pristine feel – impressive but lacking the lived-in warmth that makes a place truly special. Recent visits tell a different story entirely.
Walking through the facility with director Leanne, it's clear to Roy Butler MP the preschool has found its rhythm.
Children's artwork brightens the walls, equipment fills the spaces with purpose, and the whole complex buzzes with the energy that only comes when a building is being used exactly as intended.
The clever design centres around a courtyard that ties the new construction seamlessly with the renovated original building. It's the kind of thoughtful planning that creates natural flow and gives children multiple spaces to learn and play.
But perhaps the most exciting development is still to come.
The preschool is soon to take delivery of a $220,000 bus that will make a real difference for families across the district.
With the capacity to carry more children, it means fewer parents will need to make the daily drop-off and pick-up run – no small consideration when you're dealing with distances between farms and town.
For director Leanne and her team, the journey from that initial repair request to this thriving educational hub represents something bigger than just improved facilities.
It's proof that rural communities can punch well above their weight when they have the vision and support to make things happen.
The Murrin Bridge Preschool stands as a testament to what's possible when a community refuses to settle for just getting by. From fixing floorboards to creating a showcase facility that any town would be proud of – it's been quite the transformation.
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